Since a U.S. State Department spokesman said there's no reason to oppose the performance, it seems likely the orchestra will play in Pyongyang during its Asia tour in February for some U.S.-North Korea "orchestral diplomacy."

"We have just very recently received an inquiry about the possibility of the New York Philharmonic performing in Pyongyang," said orchestra spokesman Eric Latzky. "It came from an independent representative as an official invitation of the Ministry of Culture."

Although the invitation was very unusual, Latzky said the orchestra would explore the possibility of the performance after discussions with the U.S. government.

Latzky said if the orchestra accepts the invitation a Pyongyang performance could be possible in early next year during a scheduled tour of East Asia.

According to AFP, U.S. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said at a regular briefing on Tuesday that it is up to the Philharmonic whether or not they accept the invitation.

(englishnews@chosun.com )